Crossing over
Exploding Compact Crossover scene has lots to offer
Mom called the other day. She wants a new compact crossover for her and her husband. They drive a small car, which they now find too small. Also, they recently fell in love with a crossover they rented. Mom says it had more room, had all-wheel drive, and (most importantly for her husband with his recently-replaced hip), was easy to get in and out of without a climb up (like a truck) or a plop down (like into Mom’s small car). Plus, as avid gardeners and the owners of a small dog, Mom and hubby love the idea of the bigger, more open, and easier-to-access cargo area. Mom and hubby are the norm these days: two of thousands of shoppers rapidly shifting from small cars to small crossovers, for reasons mainly centred around those noted above. Mom wanted to know which crossover was the “best.” I told her there’s no such thing. There’s no compact crossover model on the road today that’s head and shoulders above (or below) its competition, and the best crossover for any shopper centres around numerous variables and desires. We discussed crossovers for hours, iPad and manufacturer websites in hand. Below, I’ll share some of the pros and cons of each. These comments are based on recent test drives of smaller crossovers I’ve reviewed lately, and should not be taken as a comprehensive listing of attributes of all in-market products right now. I’d advise anyone shopping the market to hit their local dealers, and hit the road: Drive everything, drive the ones you like more than once, and make a decision once you’ve put in some test drive hours.
Model: Nissan Qashqai Pros:
Good looks A consistently comfortable drive in virtually all situations, even on very rough roads Powerful brakes that bite hard and offer a precise action Virtually invisible AWD system Offers all must-have safety features, including radar cruise, lane departure alert and more Powerful LED headlights available in Platinum Package Fantastic manoeuvrability and 360-degree around-view parking camera make parking a cinch
Cons:
Cabin could use more colour and detail, and fails to stand out in the segment Taller or thicker occupants will wish for more space Some awkwardly-placed controls seem to have been added as an afterthought The gist: Qashqai is a solid allaround package that gets almost everything right, but if you want a stand-out cabin, or the roomiest small crossover for your dollar, it may not quite cut the mustard.
Model: Subaru Crosstrek Pros:
Highly respected AWD system that performs flawlessly in challenging conditions Powerful brakes Manual transmission is available if you like Segment-leading ride quality on rough roads/off-road surfaces Good outward visibility thanks to tall windows and upright driving position Adventurous and athletic looks All must-have safety features
Cons:
Not as quiet at speed as some competitors Some drivers will wish for higher performance Some controls are awkwardly placed (seat heater switches, for instance) Dated infotainment system graphics The gist: Crosstrek is another solid all-around package in a crossover today, and one that’s very deserving of your test-drive time.
Model: Toyota C-HR Pros:
The most striking styling in the segment Unique, nicely-detailed cabin Good feature content bang for the buck Sports car steering and handling feel Good fuel economy Segment’s best ride and handling balance, including excellent rough-road ride quality
Cons:
Smallish interior Limited outward visibility, on account of the striking styling Backup camera is awkwardly placed on the rear-view mirror Very limited outward view for rear-seat occupants Not available with all-wheel drive The gist: The C-HR is the segment’s specialist for styling, sportiness and an authentically fine-tuned feel to the ride and handling, provided you’re willing to give up some space, visibility and AWD. If you like a sports car but need something a little larger, this fits the bill.
Model: Jeep Renegade Pros:
One of the most instantly-recognizable machines on the scene Offers actual off-road capability Good feature content bang for the buck on many trim grades Fun, playful and delightful looks, inside and out The best infotainment touchscreen system in the segment Nice highway drive Miles of headroom, thanks to the boxy shape Plenty of selection with various power trains and trim grades
Cons:
So-so headlight performance Gets very pricey when loaded in top trims Ride quality may be too easily degraded on rougher surfaces The gist: The Renegade is a good pick if you’re after some serious-for-the-segment off-road chops and unmistakable looks, but be prepared to fork over a little more money.
Model: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Pros:
Good space-for-the-buck quotient Standard AWD Segment leading power train smoothness and refinement A comfortable and relaxing highway cruiser Effective and well-calibrated high-end safety features
Cons:
Higher-than-average reduction of ride quality on rougher roads Some drivers will find the suspension a little too soft and floaty Dated infotainment graphics Styling not for everyone The gist: The Eclipse Cross is an excellent choice where unique looks, relatively generous space, a relaxing highway drive and an excellent drive train are priorities, but confirm your acceptance of its ride quality on the roughest roads available before you buy.